The Indian nettle is a very pretty summer perennial with brightly colored flowers that also requires little care. Various species are known, with Monarda didyma ("bee balm") and Monarda fistulosa ("wild monard") and their hybrids being particularly widespread. No matter which Indian nettle you are interested in, all species are absolutely hardy.
The Indian nettle is absolutely hardy
Robust Indian nettle
It is a very hardy plant that is rarely attacked by pests or diseases. The only problem is powdery mildew, which typically only occurs in summer and is usually caused by a location that is too dry or too narrow. Indian nettles tolerate frosty temperatures very well, provided they are in the right location.
Choose a suitable location
The right location is essential for injury-free wintering. Depending on the species, the plants prefer slightly different places. The bee balm, for example, prefers a slightly shady, slightly damp location, although this should never be too wet. Monarda fistulosa tolerates significantly more drought, which is why it is better to transplant it into sandy soil. Be careful to avoid waterlogging with both species - this will only lead to the plant rotting and dying - a real danger, especially in mild but wet winters.
Prepare Indian nettle for winter
Indian nettles dry up after flowering and can therefore be cut back to just above the ground just before the onset of winter. Further measures to prepare for the winter, such as covering with brushwood or mulching, are not necessary. In the spring, provide the Indian nettles with mature compost. The starter fertilizer ensures that the perennials sprout well supplied.
tips
The pre-winter pruning can of course also be carried out in spring. However, if you start the scissors too late, the budding can be delayed and thus hinder the growth and flowering of the otherwise vigorous plants.